Johnson County, Kentucky

Steep Appalachian ridge and hollow terrain with narrow creek bottoms, mixed hardwood and pine forest, and significant elevation change throughout the county. The Big Sandy River and Paint Creek drainages define the valley floors, with ridgelines rising sharply above the communities of Paintsville and Van Lear. Terrain is demanding and rewarding for fit hunters.

Low to moderate. The challenging terrain limits casual hunters effectively, and the national forest disperses pressure across a large area. Remote hollows and upper watershed ridges on the Paintsville Lake drainage see very little hunting traffic through most seasons.

Kentucky OTC license with deer permit; no statewide antler point restrictions. Multiple deer allowed with proper tags across archery, muzzleloader, and modern firearm seasons.

Black bear are established residents and KDFWR has expanded eastern Kentucky bear hunting seasons in recent years; check current regulations for zone, method, and season details before planning a bear hunt. Wild turkey are abundant throughout the mixed hardwood forest on both public and private land.

Active and huntable black bear population in true Appalachian wilderness setting; Daniel Boone National Forest public land offering deer and turkey hunting in some of the most remote terrain accessible in eastern Kentucky.